The tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma: mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine · Yueyang Hospital
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and therapeutic resistance are profoundly influenced by the dynamic interplay within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The HCC TME comprises a complex network of cellular components, including cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor-associated macrophages, and infiltrating immune cells, alongside non-cellular factors such as extracellular matrix proteins, cytokines, and angiogenic mediators. These elements collectively promote immune evasion, stromal remodeling, and neovascularization, driving tumor aggressiveness and treatment resistance. Emerging evidence suggests that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may offer a promising strategy to reprogram the immunosuppressive…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 29.48
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 210
Authors
3Topics & keywords
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- Biology
- Traditional Chinese medicine
- Tumor microenvironment
- Cancer research
- Computational biology
- Oncology
- Tumor cells